Phê Vé
June 19, 2026 • 3 min read
Many beach towns in France are imposing fines of €150 on men for going shirtless. Discover the reasons behind this regulation and what it means for visitors.
When Going Shirtless Became a Controversy
Since the 1960s, the idea that going shirtless on the beaches of France could lead to fines seemed unimaginable. However, by 2026, this became a reality: numerous beach towns in France started imposing fines of up to €150 (around 4,000,000 VND) on men strolling in public spaces without a shirt.
In fact, the number of towns enforcing this rule has doubled over the past two years, rising from about 10 to at least 20 by 2026. This regulation applies not only to locals but also to tourists who may be unfamiliar with these rules.
The History of the Shirtless Ban
La Grande-Motte was the first town in France to implement a fine for going shirtless, starting in 2008. By 2023, the fine had been raised to €150 as part of a campaign dubbed "En ville, je m'habille" (translated: "In the city, I dress up"). Since then, many other towns such as Les Sables-d'Olonne, Arcachon, Deauville, and Narbonne have adopted similar fines.
In Les Sables-d'Olonne, Mayor Yannick Moreau has strongly emphasized that going shirtless is not in line with the town's culture, particularly with many tourists coming to shop for fresh produce.
Disparities in Enforcement
Although the regulation applies to both men and women, the consequences differ significantly. While men face a €150 fine, women can be fined up to €15,000 for what is deemed indecent exposure in public.
This has sparked outrage among women in France, where advocates for women's rights argue that the inequity in this regulation needs to be addressed. A notable incident occurred in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer in August 2020 when a group of women was asked to put on shirts while sunbathing.
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A European Comparison
Compared to other European countries, the fines in France are relatively low. In Alicante, Spain, fines can reach up to €750 for going shirtless in public. In Albufeira, Portugal, fines can even soar to €1,500 for similar behavior.
Nonetheless, France has the highest number of towns enforcing shirtless bans, indicating that this is a serious issue that warrants attention in society.
Essential Information for Vietnamese Tourists
For Vietnamese travelers planning to visit France's beaches, it is crucial to be aware of the dress code regulations. Particularly in towns with shirtless bans, failure to comply could result in fines. Most major cities like Nice, Cannes, and Deauville have these regulations in place.
You are sure to have an amazing experience at the beaches of France, but remember to pack a T-shirt or swimsuit to avoid fines. The cost of living in France is relatively high, so be prepared financially for your trip.
Additionally, Vietnamese citizens need to apply for a visa before traveling to France, and you can find plenty of useful information to prepare for your journey on reputable travel websites.
Conclusion
The shirtless ban in France reflects the cultural differences and social regulations in place. Regardless of the reasons cited, such as hygiene or respect for locals, this issue continues to spark controversy within the community and among tourists. Before heading to France, make sure to thoroughly research the regulations of each town for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Article referenced and edited from: Matador Network
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